Magnetic Pot Rack - A pot rack comprising at least one track member having spaced-apart rails with at least an upper rail surface having a ferromagnetic property and at least one hook member having a lower hook portion for releasably engaging a kitchen utensil, and an upper cap portion of a dimension greater than a spacing between the rails wherein the cap portion includes a magnetic member which is magnetically attracted to the upper rail surface of each of the rails and a shaft portion interconnecting the upper cap portion and the lower hook portion. A hook member for use on a slotted ferromagnetic rail comprising a head portion, an integral shank portion and a hook portion extending from the shank portion, said head portion having magnetic means associated therewith to establish a magnetic attraction between the head portion and the rail.

2008-12-11

20080302746

Storage shelving system - A storage shelving system includes a first, second, and third module, wherein each of the modules includes a predefined type and number of components, and wherein each of the modules are adapted to be combined with each other for the assembly of a storage rack. The first module includes a plurality of posts, the second module includes a plurality of traverses, and the third module including a plurality of shelves. The plurality of posts of the first module are adapted for the assembly of a first bay of the storage rack, the plurality of traverses are adapted for the junction of the plurality of posts of the first module, and the plurality of shelves of the third module are adapted for the assembly of compartments of the storage rack.

2008-12-11

20080302747

Lock for shelving assembly - The lock for a shelving assembly secures the connector ends of the horizontal members to the uprights of the assembly, preventing the horizontal members from being lifted from their attachments to the uprights. The lock comprises a rigid, inflexible lock bar having a peripheral frame surrounding a central passage therethrough, and an opposite distal end with a lock tab extending therefrom. The attachment edge of the lock bar frame is hooked upon a protruding lance tab of the connector end, with the lance tab serving as a hinge or fulcrum for the lock bar. A spring is wedged between the attachment edge of the lock bar frame and the adjacent connector end, urging the distal end of the lock bar toward the connector to engage the lock tab within aligned holes of the connector and upright to which it is attached.

2008-12-11

20080302748

EXPANDABLE MODULAR SHELF SYSTEM - An expandable modular shelf system comprises at least one shelf which has a plurality of engaging portions adapted to be engaged with a plurality of joint assemblies correspondingly. Each joint assembly includes two cap members mated together to receive one engaging portion therebetween, a rod connected to one of the cap members, and a connecting member joining the two cap members and the rod in a way to retrain the cap members from detachment. The joint assembly is adapted to further receive at least one shelf, thereby increasing the number of shelves horizontally. The rod is adapted to further receive a joint assembly, whereby the number of shelves can be increased vertically.

Self-orienting anti-two block switch assembly - An anti-two block switch assembly for a crane is disclosed for preventing the crane from a two-blocking condition. The switch assembly includes a rotatable joint which allows the assembly to rotate about more than one axis. The switch assembly is also provided with a mounting plate and a mounting rod for mounting the switch assembly to the crane.

2008-12-11

20080302751

Baby bottle/beverage device - The present invention is directed to a unique solid fitment that has a washer/flange that defines its largest diameter, an upper portion of a cylinder structure with a thread on the outside of the cylinder, and a lower portion that provides a sealing neck for a flexible bag. The flex-bag has two compartments. An opening extends throughout the fitment. The upper portion or cylinder structure has a heat seal with a tab to contain the material in the flex-bag. The upper portion is adapted to receive a standard nipple which is held to the cylinder by a compression ring cap.

2008-12-11

20080302752

Packaging Article - A beverage container for the storage of a carbonated drink comprising a container body (

Closure Cap For Using With Containers to Allow Sharing Drinks in a Hygienic Manner - A closure cap for a beverage container that enables people to share beverages from the same container in a hygienic manner. The closure cap comprises a central capping member with a plurality of drinking tubes attached thereto. Each tube can be opened for drinking while the remaining tubes stay closed and they are preferably distinguishable from each other by markings, color, etc. In particular embodiments, each of the drinking tubes or the central member comprises a one-way valve allowing beverage to flow through the drinking tubes in only the outward direction, thereby preventing saliva, or beverage that has entered a drinker's mouth, from returning to the container. In such embodiments, the closure cap preferably has one or more pressure equalizing holes to equalize the air pressure inside the container as the beverage is consumed, and optional one-way valves to prevent beverage leakage via the pressure equalizing holes.

2008-12-11

20080302755

Tamperproof Cap For Sealing Bottles Using A Stretchable Plastic Polymer Membrane On A Hollow Frame Within A Preformed Rigid Cover - A cap for the hygienic sealing of bottles for drinkable liquids, which in one embodiment includes a closed bottom cylindrical, i.e. cup-shaped, aluminum sleeve, an insert composed of a lower hollow cylindrical base, a truncated cone also having a hollow shape, and a tapered wall having two or more elongate and vertical apertures formed therein. Said cap is further characterized by a stretchable plastic membrane that is stretched to externally cover the truncated cone-shaped section of said insert as well as its top opening, by an elastic plastic ring for clamping said membrane against the insert, and by an additional plastic structure concentric with the sleeve that sealingly occupies at least its closed bottom and acts as a seal.

2008-12-11

20080302756

CONTAINER - Containers and methods of making them are disclosed. The containers comprise a closure system comprising a fixed element and a removable closure element. The containers may be constructed to improve sanitary conditions of the dispensing portion and allow for easier opening with the ability to be reclosed, over a conventional container.

2008-12-11

20080302757

Blow Molded Container - [Problem] The invention is aimed at preventing bottom crack from occurring in a peelably laminated plastic container and maintaining the container stably in good in-use condition. This can be achieved by increasing the anti-peeling strength of a pair of rib strips, with which the bottom rib is formed, in the bottom seal that has been obtained by pinching off the parison at the bottom and molding the parison into a blow molded, peelably laminated plastic container.

2008-12-11

20080302758

Container base - A one-piece plastic container includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and having an upper portion, a sidewall portion and a base portion. The base portion defines a plurality of feet extending therearound. The base portion defines a contact diameter ratio of approximately 70-74% and a contact length ratio of approximately 20-23% for a plastic container having a volume capacity of approximately one (1) liter (1000 cc). According to additional features, the one-piece plastic container can have a nub defined on the base portion. For a one-piece plastic container having a volume capacity of approximately one (1) liter (1000 cc), the nub has a diameter of approximately 3-7 mm (0.12-0.28 inch), the base portion defines a contact area ratio of approximately 23-25%, and each foot defines corner transition portions each having a fillet radius of approximately 4-10 mm (0.16-0.39 inch).

2008-12-11

20080302759

End functionalization of carbon nanotubes - Carbon nanotubes may be selectively opened and their exposed ends functionalized. Opposite ends of carbon nanotubes may be functionalized in different fashions to facilitate self-assembly and other applications.

Method for Analyzing Quartz Member - A disclosed method of analyzing a quartz member includes steps of supplying an etchant to an etchant receiving portion formed concavely in the quartz member so as to etch the quartz member; and analyzing the etchant used in the supplying step.

Vacuum-Insulated Switching Device - A vacuum-insulated switching device contains a grounded vacuum vessel, a contact system having a fixed contact and a moving contact, electrical connecting lines coupled to the fixed contact and the moving contact, and vacuum-tight bushings supported by the grounded vacuum vessel, and provide insulation from the grounded vacuum vessel. The vacuum-tight bushings seal the electrical connected lines. An insulating transmission element is provided. A driving apparatus is coupled to the moving contact via the insulating transmission element and in a vacuum-tight manner. Further vacuum-tight bushings are provided. A further vacuum vessel is disposed in the grounded vacuum vessel. The fixed contact and the moving contact are disposed in the further vacuum vessel and pass out of the further vacuum vessel via the further vacuum-tight bushings.

2008-12-11

20080302766

Resistance Welding Machine Pinch Point Safety Sensor - There is described a continuity sensing system that operates with a resistance-welding machine. This sensing system measures continuity between the welding electrodes after the welding machine has been initiated and prevents application of high electrode force between the electrodes if the continuity measured is below a reference level. The result is a fully passive system that prevents serious high electrode force that would cause serious pinch-point injury to the operator of the welder. The present invention also includes methods of controlling pneumatic systems on resistance-welding machines to apply low force between welding electrodes until continuity between the welding electrodes has been detected.

2008-12-11

20080302767

Plasma Cutting Machine - A plasma cutting machine cuts stainless steel with good quality. An inactive gas (nitrogen) is supplied as a plasma gas, and a combustible gas (propane) having a specific gravity higher than that of air and having a reducing ability or a mixed gas of the combustible gas (propane) and an inactive gas (nitrogen) is supplied as an assist gas to a plasma torch. The combustible gas (propane) contained in the assist gas is not supplied in the pre-flow interval and after-flow interval, and is supplied only in the plasma arc generation interval.

2008-12-11

20080302768

Zero-Gap Laser Welding - A method for laser welding a pair of overlapping metal members together and a weld joint produced by the method. At least one of the metal members has a protective metal coating. The method includes applying a thin layer of an alloying agent on at least one of the metal members between the metal members, melting the protective metal coating and the alloying agent to form an alloy that is disposed between the overlapping members with zero gap, welding the overlapping metal members together to form a weld, and controlling the amount of the alloying agent such that the extended solid solubility of the alloying agent in the weld is not exceeded.

"Machine for removing surfaces of semiconductors and particularly surfaces with integrated circuits" - A machine for removing surfaces of semiconductors with integrated circuits, comprising laser emitters, at least one beam of which strikes at least one semiconductor wafer or at least one fragment thereof, for ablation of a surface layer of preset thickness, supports for the at least one wafer or fragment thereof, and movers for the relative movement of the emitters with respect to the at least one wafer or fragment thereof, the movers being adapted to make the emitters follow a path such that the at least one beam emitted thereby travels over the entire surface to be removed of the at least one wafer or fragment thereof.

Arc Welding Robot - In the visual inspection of welded members, there is a limit to welding quality control. Even in the welding quality control using general-purpose measuring instruments, sufficient data cannot be collected, and increased cost entails.

METAL FORMING APPARATUS AND PROCESS WITH RESISTANCE HEATING - An apparatus for forming a metal article includes a station which receives and supports a workpiece. The station has a source of electrical current and a source of a fluid. The station further includes a first and a second electrode clamp. Each clamp is in electrical communication with the source of current and in fluid communication with the source of fluid. The clamps engage a workpiece and deliver an electrical current and a fluid thereto. The system includes an actuator mechanically associated with at least one of the clamps. The actuator is operable in combination with a clamp to apply mechanical force to the workpiece. The system is operable to selectably control the temperature profile and/or ambient conditions of a workpiece during forming or processing steps. Disclosed are specific systems including modular systems. Also disclosed are methods for using the systems.

Glow plug and method of manufacturing the same - A glow plug and related manufacturing method are disclosed. The glow plug includes a heating section for heating a combustion chamber of an engine for promoting an ignition. The heating section includes a ceramic heating element developing a heat when applied with electric power, a ceramic insulating support body embedded with the heating element, and a pair of lead wires connected to the heating element and having terminal portions exposed to a surface of the insulating body. The heating element has a positive temperature coefficient of resistance and includes: (a) initial resistance R

2008-12-11

20080302778

Apparatus and Method for Maintaining Cooked Food in a Ready-to-use Condition - A food warming apparatus includes a heating compartment that can hold one or more trays containing previously cooked food portions. A rack in the heating compartment includes a support member, a channel, and a stop that blocks the front end of the channel. A cover that includes a horizontal section and a vertical section is mounted on the support such that the horizontal section is supported on one side by the support member and on the other side by the vertical section, which is positioned in the channel behind the stop. When a tray is inserted into the receiving space defined by the cover and support member, the cover is lifted up so that the horizontal section rests on the tray and at least partially blocks the open top of the tray, thereby restricting evaporation of liquids from the previously cooked food portions contained in the tray.

2008-12-11

20080302779

Cooking Appliance Which is Mounted in an Elevated Manner - A cooking appliance which is mounted in an elevated manner, which comprises a muffle which defines a cooking chamber and which comprises a muffle opening which is arranged on the base thereof, a base door which is used to close the muffle opening and at least one heating body which is provided in the muffle, in addition to an associated operational method. The pyrolysis heating power, which is produced by the base door, does not exceed 20% of the pyrolysis heating power of all heating bodies for pyrolysis.

2008-12-11

20080302780

Method of Water Temperature Calibration for Electric Kettle - A water temperature calibration method for an electric kettle includes the steps of providing a temperature sensor, a microprocessor, and a control circuit; detecting an interior temperature from one of the temperatures of the water, a heating point contacting with the water, and an interior wall of the electric kettle; determining a temperature rate change by the microprocessor and comparing a current cycle of the temperature rate change with a previous cycle thereof; and sending out a control signal to the control circuit when the current cycle of the temperature rate change is close to the previous cycle thereof that a difference between the current cycle of the temperature rate change and the previous cycle thereof is minimized. Therefore, the process is adapted to accurately determine the water temperature and to cut off the heating power when the water is boiled.

Actively controlled embedded burn-in board thermal heaters - In one embodiment, a test board includes a plurality of socket locations each to receive a corresponding burn-in socket which in turn is to receive a semiconductor device under test (DUT). Each of the socket locations includes a heating element embedded within the test board, which may be used to provide thermal conduction to the DUT during a burn-in test. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

2008-12-11

20080302784

WATER STORAGE DEVICE HAVING A POWERED ANODE - A powered anode assembly. The powered anode assembly includes an electrode wire, a shield tube, and a connector assembly. The electrode wire has a first portion and a second portion. The shield tube substantially covers the first portion of the electrode wire, leaving a small portion of the first portion open. The connector assembly includes a connector that is electrically connected to the electrode wire, and a fastener that is physically coupled to but electrically isolated from the connector.

2008-12-11

20080302785

Coil unit and fixing apparatus - A fixing apparatus includes a mold (holding member) formed by injection molding to hold a coil so that the coil maintains a predetermined positional relation with respect to a heating roller, and capable of holding a temperature sensor which detects a temperature of the heating roller and a thermostat which detects an abnormal temperature of the heating roller in predetermined positions facing the heating roller.

2008-12-11

20080302786

INDUCTION DRYER - In an induction heater, preheated, pressurized air is further heated in the heating cabinet and also drawn into the coil tube via a suction fan. The simultaneous pulling and pushing of the twice-heated air through the tube provides superior air flow to pick up more moisture from the can ends being dried. The tube ends rest on upwardly concave collars and are held in place by gravity, with a single screw acting as a stop above to prevent upward movement. Removal requires only removing the single screw at each end then lifting the tube straight up out of the cabinet, which is facilitated by providing a hinged cover on the cabinet.

SHOT GLASS WITH RELEASING ELEMENT - A shot glass with a releasing element is described. The apparatus in a first embodiment comprises a cup section comprising a base comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, and an edge, and a wall extending from the base at a first end of the wall, the top surface of the base and the wall defining a cavity. The apparatus in this embodiment further comprises a scraper section comprising a base member having one or more arms, each arm having a peripheral end and a blade member extending from each the peripheral end at a first end of the blade member, each blade member having a first axial edge and a second axial edge and a second end opposite the first end, the scraper section further comprising a head ring mounted to each the second end, and a system for attaching the scraper section to the cup section. The cup section attaches to the scraper section in one embodiment by a boss in the case of the cup section engaging an aperture in the base member of the scraper section. The cup section attaches to the scraper section in another embodiment by a lip in the cup section engaging a groove in the scraper section.

2008-12-11

20080302789

Reconfigurable container and methods of fabrication and use thereof - Reconfigurable containers which may adopt two stable configurations are described. In the first configuration, the container is suitable for the storing and transport of goods. When in a second, collapsed configuration, the container occupies a lesser volume than the first configuration and thus requires less shipping space. This is accomplished through the use of at least one deformable active material member that is preferably a shape memory polymer and, optionally, releasable fasteners.

2008-12-11

20080302790

Foldable Box Structure - A foldable box structure comprises two main bodies and at least four actuation bodies. Each of the main bodies has a first lateral and a second lateral. Each of the actuation bodies has a first pivotal edge and a second pivotal edge. The first pivotal edges of the actuation bodies are pivotally coupled to the first laterals and second laterals of the main bodies to form rotation axes. The actuation bodies, which are coupled to the main bodies and at the same side of the main body, are pivotally coupled to each other in the second pivotal edges to form other rotation axes. The actuation bodies are pivotally rotated with respect to the rotation axes and stacked between the main bodies to have a close state. The actuation bodies are pivotally rotated with respect to the rotation axes to expand together with the main bodies and have an open state.

2008-12-11

20080302791

Collapsible Container - A collapsible container with latches provides a more consistent knockdown force in more situations. At least one of the engaging surfaces of the latch is curved outwardly toward the other engaging surface. This provides substantially tangential contact between the surfaces, even when the wall is deformed slightly by the knockdown force. The tangential contact provides consistent frictional force resisting the knockdown force.

2008-12-11

20080302792

DECORATIVE CONTAINER - The container of the present invention provides a container with a décor-displaying exterior. The container comprises a transparent exterior portion, a waterproof interior liner portion, and a connection portion. The invention may additionally include a base portion. A number of sizes, shapes, and materials may be used in the construction of such a container, as dictated by the desired end result and intended use. The container thus allows a user to modify the external appearance of the container by inserting material between the external portion and the internal portion. The container obtains a “finished” look by use of the connection portion.

2008-12-11

20080302793

Drinking Container Vent System and Method - The present invention relates to a drinking apparatus including a vent system that removably connects to a drinking container. The vent system is used to form a variety of leak free and essentially vacuum-free drinking containers. The vent system, includes a closure member and a valve, and may be used with an anti-bubble tube. The closure member may be a single member or may be formed of two portions. The valve may be coupled thereto or integrally formed therewith. The anti-bubble tube and valve function as a diving bell to generally prevent liquid from entering the anti-bubble tube.

2008-12-11

20080302794

Security Closure for a Container - The present invention is a security closure for enclosing an opening of a container includes a security lid having openings for lock tabs on the container. The lock tabs mate with openings on the combination lid by inserting and rotating the container. Lock dials are used to maintain the security lid and the container in a closed relationship.

2008-12-11

20080302795

Drinking Cup Attachable to a Beverage Container - A drinking cup that is selectably attachable to a beverage container. A generally annular body of the drinking cup has a sidewall, an open end and an opposing closed end. A recessed connector portion is formed in the closed end, the connector portion being sized and shaped to detachably couple the drinking cup to a top portion of the beverage container. The drinking cup is capable of containing at least one of fluids and ice before being attached to the beverage container, while attached to the beverage container, and after being detached from the beverage container.

CONTAINER - Containers and methods of making them are disclosed. The containers comprise a closure system comprising a fixed element and a removable closure element. The containers may be constructed to improve sanitary conditions of the dispensing portion and allow for easier opening with the ability to be reclosed, over a conventional container.

2008-12-11

20080302798

Single tab lid - A packaging system includes a container and an unopened lid. The unopened lid includes a central planar region and a lid rim. The lid rim has a lid rim inner wall, a lid rim outer wall, a lid flange and a first tab. The first tab extends in a plane parallel to the central planar region. The first tab also extends outside the lid rim outer wall. A partially cut region is located on the lid rim outer wall, extends around most of the lid rim outer wall, and extends adjacent the first tab. The lid flange extends in a plane parallel to the central planar region. The lid flange also extends outside the lid rim outer wall. The container includes a container flange. The lid flange is welded to the container flange.

2008-12-11

20080302799

Metal container with screw-top closure and method of making the same - A food or drink container kit includes a metal container including a round threaded neck having at least one integrally formed thread. The kit also includes a metal press-on, twist-off closure comprising a round skirt including a gasket material located on at least a portion of the interior of the skirt, a seal forming between the neck and skirt when the closure is placed on the container and heated.

2008-12-11

20080302800

Plastic portable heat insulation cup - An plastic portable heat insulation cup, comprising: a) an external cup made of plastic material by means of an injection molding process, a first lip rim being formed by turning the rim portion of the external cup inside out, an annular groove with the external wall protruding outward being integrally formed at a place 3-13 mm lower than the first lip rim, the distance from the annular groove to the protrusion portion of the cup bottom being marked with h1; and b) an internal cup made of plastic material by means of an injection molding process, the outer diameter of the internal cup depending on the inclination and the inner diameter of the flank of the external cup, a plurality of corrugations being formed in the flank of the internal cup such that a heat insulation space is created between the corrugations and the flank of the external cup, a second lip rim being formed by turning the rim portion of internal cup inside out, the distance from the second lip rim to the external side of the cup bottom being marked with h2 which is identical to h1. Accordingly, the second lip rim fits into the annular groove when the internal cup is placed within the external cup so that a heat insulation cup is created by attaching the external cup and the internal cup to each other.

2008-12-11

20080302801

APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR WASTE MANAGEMENT - A waste management system comprising a trash receptacle, a pouch fixed to a surface of the trash receptacle and including a clasp means, and a cartridge with an arrangement of retainer slots. The retainer slots are positioned to correspond with the clasp means when the cartridge is inserted into the pouch so that the retainer slots are penetrated by the clasp means. The cartridge contains a plurality of liners hung from a support member within said cartridge, the hung liners positioned for distribution through a combination longitudinal notch and transverse slit provided in the cartridge.

2008-12-11

20080302802

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING EDIBLE SUBSTANCES WITH A BEVERAGE - The present technology relates to apparatus and methods having a plurality for chambers for storing edible substances. More particularly, the present technology relates to container caps, storage units, kits, and methods for sealing and isolating a plurality of edible substances. Certain embodiments present storage units comprising a plurality of sealed and isolated substances that connect to the cap of a beverage container using a snap-fit or a friction fit connection.

2008-12-11

20080302803

FLUID DISPENSING SYSTEM - A fluid dispensing system that provides storage means for at least one additional concentrate containing cartridge, the cartridge to be received by an open end of a fluid container and disposed on the outer surface thereof. The fluid dispensing system includes a fluid container, a fluid dispensing means, and a storage means for a concentrate containing cartridge.

2008-12-11

20080302804

Storage tank for cryogenic liquids - A new procedure for constructing cryogenic storage tanks involves erecting a freestanding metal liner. The liner is sized and configured to withstand the hydraulic forces the concrete wall of the tank being poured without the need for temporary stiffeners on the inside surface of lower portions of the liner. Lateral tension ties can be connected to anchor ties on an outward surface of the liner and used to tie the liner to outer formwork. These ties may be spaced up to about 2 m apart. Studs can also be provided on the outer surface of the liner, and a cylindrical ring of cryogenic steel can be integrated into the liner.

2008-12-11

20080302805

Fuel Tank for Work Vehicle - A work vehicle has a plurality of wheels including a first wheel and a fuel tank disposed upwardly of the first wheel. The fuel tank includes a first portion which is located higher than the highest point of the first wheel in a side view and which also is overlapped at least partially with the first wheel in a top view; a second portion disposed forwardly of the highest point of the first wheel and extending downwardly from the first portion so as to extend lower than the highest point of the first wheel, the second portion being in fluid communication with the first portion; and a third portion disposed rearwardly of the highest point of the first wheel and extending downwardly from the first portion so as to extend lower than the highest point of the first wheel, the third portion being in fluid communication with the first portion.

2008-12-11

20080302806

POT - A pot comprises a pot body having at least one handle and a pot lid having a lifting handle for covering the pot body. The pot lid is connected with the lifting handle by the lower end of a fixed portion of the lifting handle. The lifting handle is provided with a handle portion extending towards the outer edge of the pot lid from the upper end of the fixed portion. The handle of the pot body is provided with a pilot recess adapted to receive the tail of the handle portion. The tail of the handle portion is inserted into the pilot recess or lean against the outer edge of the pot body at the internal side, while the top surface of the pot lid leans against the upper portion of the inner wall of the pot body at two points, so as to ensure the pot lid to be laterally and stably retained on the pot body when the pot lid is laterally placed on the pot body. The pot according to the present invention within the configuration described above does eliminate the inconvenience, when the food in the pot is cooked without the lid, the pot lid has to be rested on a counter top, which not only takes up room, but could cause residue to drip onto the countertop.

2008-12-11

20080302807

Container with recessed removable venting tab - A container that includes a hollow body having at least a first exterior wall and a recess defined in the first exterior wall A tab is formed integrally with the exterior wall and located in the recess. The tab does not extend substantially beyond the recess. Removal of the tab forms an opening in the first exterior wall of the container.

2008-12-11

20080302808

BIODEGRADABLE PACKAGING SYSTEM - Disclosed herein is a biodegradable container designed for holding produce items. Specifically exemplified is a biodegradable container that includes a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion has an image of produce provided thereon. The bottom portion has an image of a basket provided thereon. The top portion also defines a window for the customer to view the produce product disposed within the container. The window has a biodegradable film which covers the window.

2008-12-11

20080302809

WATERPROOF STORAGE UNIT - A storage unit which is substantially water proof is provided. The storage unit may comprise a shell having lower edges which mate into a groove formed in a top surface of a base to provide a substantially waterproof barrier therebetween. The junction between the lower edge of the side walls and the first groove may be sealed with a water proof sealant. A front side wall of the shell may have an aperture therethrough to allow users to move items into and out of the storage unit. A door may be attached to the storage unit to prevent water from entering into the storage unit through the aperture. Moreover, a lower edge of the door body may be inserted into a second groove formed in the top surface of the base to prevent water from entering into the storage unit from under the door.

2008-12-11

20080302810

Mounting Assembly For a Paper Dispenser - A mounting assembly for mounting a roll of sheet material having a central cylindrical opening in a dispenser for dispensing sections of the sheet material. The dispenser (

2008-12-11

20080302811

Device for Automatically Equipping Substrates with Medical and/or Pharmaceutical and/or Food Supplementing Products and System for Automatically Producing Packaging for Medical and/or Pharmaceutical and/or Food Supplementing Products - The invention relates to an apparatus for automatically mounting substrates with medical and/or pharmaceutical and/or food-supplementing products, including at least one magazine for storing blister strips rolled up on rolls or the like, each magazine having at least one holding position for the rolls, and a delivery device for unrolling the blister strips and delivering the unrolled blister strips to a supply position for the products to be mounted being provided for each roll in the magazine, and a mounting head which can be controlled by a control system for transporting the products from the supply position to a dispensing position on the substrate, which is distinguished in that the apparatus has separating means for separating product-filled blister sections from the blister strip, and the mounting head is designed to receive, rotate and dispense the separated blister sections with the products sealed therein. Furthermore, the invention concerns a system for automatically manufacturing packages with at least one above-mentioned apparatus.

2008-12-11

20080302812

Small item dispenser - A dispenser assembly for dispensing small items such as pieces of candy or gum is disclosed herein. The dispenser assembly includes a first container including a first storage chamber for storing small items, a second container including a second storage chamber for storing small items, the second container including a dispenser opening, the second container movable between a dispensing position and a storage position, wherein the dispenser opening is in communication with the second storage chamber in the dispensing position and the dispenser opening is blocked off from the second storage chamber in the storage position, wherein the second container is removably attachable to the first container and refillable with small items from the first storage chamber of the first container when the second container is still attached to the first container.

2008-12-11

20080302813

VENDING MACHINE HAVING A COMMODITY COLUMN - A vending machine has a support part that has a first support member extending in the right and left direction on the inside of a commodity storage chamber and a second support member extending in the front and rear direction on the inside of the commodity storage chamber, and supports a commodity column so that the commodity column is movable in the front and rear direction on the first and second support members. In the vending machine, when a support receiving part is detached from the first support member, the commodity column can be moved in the front and rear direction via the second support member, so that replenishment of commodities to the commodity column and maintenance of the commodity column can be accomplished. Both of the first support member and the second support members are located under the commodity column, and support the commodity column from the downside. Therefore, spaces for arranging support members at the right and left of the commodity column are unnecessary.

2008-12-11

20080302814

Dispensers for tissue dilator devices - Dilator dispensers and mounting apparatus and methods of dispensing and mounting said nasal dilators to enable dilation to external tissue are provided. An apparatus may be used with a variety of types and sizes of dilator devices, including traditional elongate dilator devices for humans and animals such as horses, dogs and the like. A compact, portable, protective dilator dispenser is provided so that a user may readily access and apply a dilator device at any time. A combined apparatus comprising a dilator dispenser and a mounting aid is provided for a dilator device so that said dilator may be quickly, easily and accurately applied by a user.

Pill Plunger - A pill plunger includes a hollow tube having a forward end and a rearward end. A rod or plunger has a forward end having a dished out portion for receiving medication and a rearward end having a button. The plunger occupies the tube with the dished out portion at the forward end of the tube and the button extending from the rearward end of the tube. Medication is placed in the dished out portion, which is then retracted into the tube. After insertion of the tube into a patient's mouth, the button is depressed to extend the plunger and dispense the medication. A spring can be used to retract the plunger upon release of the button. The dished out portion can be sealed to carry a fluid or powder. A dual dished out portion can be provided in the rod, and a window can be formed in the hollow tube.

2008-12-11

20080302817

Lid dispenser - The present invention relates to a lid dispenser for lids which fit on disposable cups used for soda, milkshakes, coffee and the like. The dispenser receives a stack of lids in a lid stack holder mounted on a lid dispensing block. The lid stack holder has a hole in its base allowing the stack of lids to rest on the floor of the lid dispensing block. The block has an ejection arm which when activated dispenses one lid through an exit port onto a tray.

Container evacuation system - A container evacuation system is provided for viscous flowable materials such as grease, paste or flowable powders. The container system includes a lightweight, rigid exterior, such as a cardboard container. Provided within the container is a flexible containment system constructed of polyethylene sheets or the like. The flexible containment system is provided with a plurality of weldments to create at least two pockets, wherein one pocket contains the flowable material and a second pocket is available to be filled with air, to allow air provided to the second pocket to force the flowable material from the first pocket out through a drain. The system includes a weldment which curves around at least a portion of the drain to crease a funnel which focuses flowable material toward the drain, while reducing the likelihood of a portion of the flexible containment system from obstructing the movement of flowable material out of the first pocket through the drain.

2008-12-11

20080302820

Self-Sealing Auto-Aligning Magnetically-Hanging Spice Dispenser - A hanging spice dispenser comprises a plate assembly and a container assembly for storing spices. The plate assembly comprises a non-magnetic planer plate and a plurality of magnetic elements embedded at pre-determined locations. The container assembly comprises a generally cylindrical spice container, a removable cap and a magnetic element. Magnetic attraction force between the magnetic element of the container assembly and the magnetic element of the plate assembly is exerted when the container assembly is placed in proximity to the plate assembly. The container assembly is capable of detaching from the bottom surface of the plate assembly when force is applied to the container assembly. The removable cap and the plate assembly form self-seal in order to prevent air and moisture from entering into the generally cylindrical container. This invention relates to spice dispensers, and the principal use of the invention is for dispensing spices in a kitchen.

2008-12-11

20080302821

MIXING AND DISPENSING FLUID COMPONENTS OF A MULTICOMPONENT COMPOSITION - A device for dispensing a multicomponent composition composed of a mixture of different fluid components includes a first and at least a second fluid component inlet. The device also includes a mixing area located downstream from the fluid component inlets and an outlet extending from the mixing area. Each of the fluid component inlets is adapted to communicate with a source of a different fluid component. The mixing area is adapted to receive a flow of a first and at least second fluid component. Within the mixing area, the flow of the first fluid component is disrupted to allow mixing with the flow of a second fluid component to form a flow of multicomponent composition. The mixing area is further adapted to disrupt the flow of the multicomponent composition before the flow of the multicomponent composition exits through the outlet.

2008-12-11

20080302822

Liquid Cooling and Dispensing Device - A device to cool a liquid during the pouring procedure is provided. The device comprises an enclosure having a top portion and a bottom portion. Generally mounted to the bottom portion is a base for mounting the device to the neck of a bottle. Optionally mounted to the top portion is a spout which generally comprises a valve adapted to control the temperature of the poured liquid by controlling the flow thereof. The bottom portion and the top portion respectively comprise a first and a second openings between which extends a preferably metallic coil conduit. Within the enclosure, the conduit is surrounded by a low freezing cooling material. The device further comprises a vent passage extending in the base portion. Upon pouring the liquid from a bottle, the liquid circulates through the conduit which is in close contact with the cold cooling material, effectively cooling the liquid.

2008-12-11

20080302823

COUPLING DEVICE AND KIT FOR A CLEANING FLUID DISPENSER - Disclosed herein is a coupling device for coupling a counter mounted fluid dispenser to a cleaning fluid reservoir. The coupling device includes a conduit configured to couple to a portion of the cleaning fluid dispenser. The coupling device also includes a cleaning-fluid reservoir coupler. The cleaning fluid reservoir coupler is configured to couple to an opening of a cleaning fluid reservoir. The conduit extends through at least a portion of the cleaning fluid reservoir coupler. In use, the conduit is movably positionable through the reservoir coupler such that a second end of the conduit is positioned with the cleaning fluid disposed in the cleaning fluid reservoir.

Plunger tube - The plunger tube includes a flexible tubular housing having a closed bottom and a top, the top including an opening allowing contents of the tube to be dispensed therefrom. A feed plunger is permanently disposed inside the tubular housing, the feed plunger having dual tapered wiping blades that hug the tube inner walls to aid in dispensing contents adhered to the tube walls. The wiping blades also prevent the plunger from sliding out of axial alignment with the tube. A tube cap is removably disposed on the top to seal and alternatively unseal the opening in the top. When a user squeezes and displaces the plunger upward from the outside of the tube, a corresponding amount of tube contents is forcibly ejected through the top opening. Advantageously, the internal plunger assists in complete usage of the tube contents.

2008-12-11

20080302827

SPRAY DISPENSER - A spray dispenser for containing and dispensing a fluid comprises a barrel to contain the fluid and a cap portion connected to the barrel. The cap portion includes a pump means. A fluid conduit is within the barrel and connected to the pump means. A clip is connected to a selected one of the barrel and the cap portion, such that the spray dispenser is in an inverted orientation when in place in a pocket by way of the clip. Alternatively, a plate type-member and a removable cap cover may be selectively employed to maintain the spray dispenser in an inverted orientation when not in use.

2008-12-11

20080302828

Product Packaging and Dispensing Device Comprising a Sterile Filter Bottle Which is Equipped with a Nozzle - The invention relates to a device for packaging and dispensing a liquid, semi-fluid or suspended product, comprising a container which houses the product to be dispensed through a nozzle, as well as a unit for changing and filtering the air entering the container following the dispensing of the product. According to the invention, the assembly formed by the container and the nozzle with which said container is equipped comprises at least: one flexible part which, when actuated, causes the product to be discharged; and a first valve which is associated with the nozzle in older to enable the discharge of the product when the flexible part is actuated, but without allowing the ingress of external air when said flexible part is released. The air change and filtration unit is associated with a second valve which allows external air to enter the container when the flexible part is released, but without allowing the discharge of the product or the air housed in said container when the flexible part is actuated The invention is suitable for the packaging and dispensing of sterile products, such as opthamology drops

2008-12-11

20080302829

DISPENSING BOTTLE FOR LIQUID SOLUTIONS - The dispensing bottle includes a dispensing head with an air inlet allowing ambient air to enter an opening of a reservoir portion of the bottle, and a filter member that fits over and seals the opening of the reservoir portion of the bottle for filtering the ambient air entering the bottle to prevent contaminants from entering the reservoir portion of the bottle along with ambient air.

2008-12-11

20080302830

Squeeze Bottle and Eye Dropper Using the Same - To provide a squeeze bottle with reduced pressing force required to delivery a liquid, and particularly a squeeze bottle wherein the pressing force is reduced to such an extent that allows easy control of the discharge of liquid drops even when a valve operated by the liquid pressure is provided.

2008-12-11

20080302831

Pump container with a pick-up port thereof - This invention relates to a pump container with a pick-up port, comprising a receiving portion at one end and a mouth portion at the other end of the container, a pump device having a pump fixed and enclosed within the mouth portion by a cap, the pump having a hollow tube with one end extending to the receiving portion, the other end being provided outside the mouth portion, a push button being provided at the top end of the pump device and connected with a discharge port, characterized in that an inclined surface is formed on the bottom end of the receiving portion, a pick-up port is located at the corner of the lowest point of the inclined surface. If the residue on the bottom of the pump container cannot be sucked up completely when it is about to be consumed up, the closing means is detached from the pick-up port so that the residual content on the bottom can be taken out thoroughly through the pick-up port.

REFILLABLE MATERIAL TRANSFER SYSTEM - such as fluids and liquids, includes a material containment vessel with an upper region incorporating a motive force and a bottom region with a material ingress and egress opening. A diconical or other shaped force transfer device is located in the material containment area. The force transfer device is an energy transducer when the material containment is filled with highly viscous materials, such as adhesives, sealants, mastics or lubricating greases. The force transfer device serves as an integral part of a level indicator for both viscous fluids and lower viscosity liquids. The viscous material itself forms a seal between the interface region of the force transfer device and the inside wall of the fluid vessel. Vertical stabilizing elements may extend outward from the force transfer device.

2008-12-11

20080302834

Container for a Liquid and a Propelling Gas Comprising a Valve - The invention relates to a container for containing a liquid and a propelling gas, in which the container comprises a valve for expelling the liquid from the container through the propelling gas during operating the valve, in which the valve comprises an operating element connected with the valve, and wherein the valve is adapted to be opened when the operating element is moved from its rest position, wherein a tilting element is connected tiltably around a single tilting axis with the container, that the tilting element is coupled mechanically with the operating element for moving the operating element from its rest position during tilting of the tilting element. The consequence of this feature is that the valve is easily operable by executing a tilting movement. A tilting movement is a rotational movement which is easier operated by a human being than the pressing on a push button.

2008-12-11

20080302835

DEVICE FOR DISPENSING DOSAGES OF SUBSTANCES IN POWDER- OR PASTE FORM - A dosage-dispensing device has a drive unit and a receiver for a dosage-dispensing unit. The drive unit has a drive shaft. The dosage-dispensing unit has a delivery orifice with a closure element that is disposed in the delivery orifice. The closure element is coupled to the drive shaft when the device is in an operating state. The closure element provides the delivery orifice with an aperture cross-section that varies between a closed position and a maximally open position. To couple the drive shaft to the closure element and to open the delivery orifice, the drive unit linearly advances towards the dosage-dispensing unit. A closure spring holds the closure element in a closed position up to the point of complete coupling. To prevent premature opening of the delivery orifice during the coupling process, the drive shaft has limited linear mobility in a direction away from the dosage-dispensing unit.

2008-12-11

20080302836

Multipart Plastic Closure - A multi-part plastic closure that accommodates an increased inner pressure in the receptacle on which the closure is attached, while avoiding deformations which compromise the tightness or sealing of the closure. The corresponding multi-part plastic closure includes a lower part having a first region with a lateral surface, with an inner thread for screwing onto a receptacle, and which is closed to the top by a pour-out mouth or spout. The pour-out mouth or spout includes a top surface or covering area which is reduced as an annular sealing surface and is reinforced by stiffening. A centric pour-out opening or central spout is provided with a sealing, and a sealing plug or peg which is integrally formed or molded on the lower side or bottom face of a screw cap capable of being put on, moves into the central pour-out opening or spout. One or more drinking openings are molded or formed in the region of the lateral wall of the screw cap and the sealing plug or peg in the top surface. The multi-part plastic closure configured in such a manner is also capable of sealing relatively high inner pressures in the receptacle.

2008-12-11

20080302837

Method for Forming Pleat on Fabric Composed of Polylactic Acid Yarn, and Pleated Fabric - A method for forming stable pleats on a fabric composed of a polylactic acid yarn of 100 mass% without causing decrease in physical properties of the polylactic acid yarn, is provided. A fabric composed of a polylactic acid yarn of 100 mass% is prepared. The fabric ,ay be raw such as a woven raw fabric or sewed product may be on in which part of clothing is sewed, or a final product. The fabric is folded up, and imparted a pressure in the folded state. Specifically, the folded fabricis passed under a suitable line pressure between a pair of rolls whose surfaces are heated in atmospheric ambience. The surface temperature of the rolls is about 100 to 130+ C. As described above, a pleated fabric such as pleated clothing whose folded-up portion becomes stable pleats can be obtained.

2008-12-11

20080302838

Systems, Methods and Apparatus for Supporting a Firearm from a Person - Embodiments of the invention can provide systems, methods, and apparatus for supporting a firearm from a person can be provided. For example, in one embodiment, a sling system for an object, such as a firearm or weapon, can be provided. The sling system can include a sling operable to mount an object to a portion of a person's body, wherein the sling comprises at least one adjustment loop. The sling system can also include an adjuster mounted to a portion of the at least one adjustment loop. Furthermore, the sling system can include a quick tab adjuster operable to change the size of the at least one adjustment loop, wherein the length of the sling can be changed when the sling is mounted to a portion of a person's body.

STRAP ORGANIZER - A strap organizer is provided and configured to attach to a strap, rod or elongated member, comprising a main body of material configured with a fastener, a storage pocket and a non slip member to selectively position the organizer onto an object at a desired position. The organizer conveniently positions the device for the consumer and helps prevent vertical displacement during travel or transport.

2008-12-11

20080302842

RATCHET TYPE POCKET CLIP - A pocket clip is attached at a first end to a tool such as a folding knife. A roller assembly is provided at a second end of the clip with a portion extending toward the tool. The roller assembly includes a ratchet wheel between a pair of elastomeric roller wheels. A pawl engages the ratchet wheel and limits rotation of the roller assembly such that the assembly rotates in one direction around an axis transverse to a longitudinal axis of the tool, and resists rotation in an opposite direction. When the tool is positioned in a user's pocket, a panel of the pocket engages the roller assembly, which rotates substantially freely, permitting the pocket panel to slide easily between the pocket clip and the surface of the tool. However, the roller assembly resists movement of the pocket panel in the opposite direction, holding the tool securely in the pocket.

2008-12-11

20080302843

Automotive Luggage Box - The present invention provides an automotive luggage box that has sufficient lightness and rigidity and that is excellent in thermal insulating properties and surface appearance/hardness. More specifically, the present invention relates to an automotive luggage box that is a luggage box

2008-12-11

20080302844

Multi-purpose strap and belt - The present disclosure provides for systems/designs for a multi-purpose, dual strap and belt system that facilitates ready access to a variety of attachments. A multi-purpose, dual strap and belt system that includes attachments features for releasably securing tools or accessories to the dual strap and belt system is disclosed. The multi-purpose, dual strap and belt system has particular application for outdoors-related activities, e.g., fishing, hunting, hiking, climbing or the like. The present disclosure provides for systems/designs for a strap for a transporting device that can also function as a belt for outdoors-related activities, where the multi-purpose, dual strap and belt system/design includes attachment features for releasably securing tools or accessories to the dual strap and belt system/design, and where the tools or accessories are readily accessible to the activity participant.